Computer and Information Sciences at Lasell University

Computer science programs in Massachusetts command strong first-year salaries, and peer programs suggest Lasell's graduates enter this range with manageable debt. Based on comparable programs across the state, graduates typically earn around $72,000 in their first year—above the national median for this field and solidly middle-of-the-pack for Massachusetts. The estimated debt load of $23,000 translates to a 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning roughly four months of gross salary to cover total borrowing. That's a workable starting point for a field where earnings tend to grow significantly with experience.

The challenge here is Lasell's position in a competitive state market. Massachusetts tech programs range from $72,000 at the median to over $115,000 at schools like Northeastern, with UMass-Dartmouth graduates earning nearly $78,000. Without actual outcomes data for Lasell specifically, it's unclear whether their program delivers at the state median or falls short. The 82% admission rate and mid-range SAT scores suggest this isn't competing for the same students as top-tier programs, but that doesn't necessarily predict weaker outcomes in tech fields where skills matter more than pedigree.

The estimated figures suggest reasonable value if Lasell's actual outcomes align with state peers, but parents should verify placement rates and employer connections before committing. In tech, internship access and curriculum relevance can matter as much as the credential itself.